Geodesy

Geometric geodesy for geospatial calculations

Geodesy is the study and measurement of the Earth’s shape. It enables the calculation of positions and distances while taking into consideration the curvature of the Earth’s surface. Applications of geodesy include tracking changes in crustal motion, erosion, and post-glacial rebound. Examples of typical geodesic calculations include:

Surface area of polygons or quadrangle

Distances along an ellipsoidal surface

Intersections of lines and polygons

Azimuth angle between points

Great circles, rhumb lines, and small circles

Conversion between geodetic and geocentric latitude

For more information about geometric geodesy and map projections, see Mapping Toolbox™.